2006 Pontiac GTO vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Pontiac GTO is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Pontiac GTO is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Pontiac GTO (400 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac GTO should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2006 Pontiac GTO is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Pontiac GTO. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Pontiac GTO (542 Nm) has 377 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2006 Pontiac GTO will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Pontiac GTO | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | GTO | Golf |
Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5969 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 400 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 542 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 92.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4080 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2480 mm |